A Separate Peace by John Knowels
The first one was our book club selection, I missed most of the discussion because Sophia took a tumble down the stairs. It seemed as though everyone liked this WWII era story about a boy in a prep school where his comrades more than the 'prep' school itself prepared him for the world. I found this book interesting being written pre-60's unrest time. People felt that unrest and insecurity about war they just didn't go against things back then. I heard my Great Aunt talk about being on the other side of WWII in Germany, she was strictly obedient, you just didn't go against your elders. I think WWII was a turning point in our society, but that is a whole different direction and my thoughts are a little rusty on this book because I read it a while ago now. I recommend this book, great read.
Uglies by Scott Westerfeld
The first of a teen science fiction trilogy set about 200 years in the future. Basically the people believe everyone must be the same or total anarchy will occur, so at 16 you get a surgery to be pretty, the same standard of pretty. Some of the people don't agree and the main character of course gets dragged into this way of thinking on accident and it is the story of how she comes to see herself for who she really is. This novel I am sure is to help teenagers to love themselves despite the pressures of society. I was entertained and found the concepts interesting.
Anne of Green Gables by LM Montgomery
This was by far my favorite of the three I read and maybe my new favorite book. My cousin has been trying to get me to read it for years, I haven't because I have seen and loved the movie so much and I thought I would get board in the book. Not so! The book of course is way better, but I still like the movies. I see all of the characters in a new light and identify with the matriarchs better now that I read their hearts instead of what the actors were able to portray. As always I love Anne with an 'e' the little orphan girl adopted by the bachelor and old maid Cuthbert siblings, the way she grows up and the lessons she learns are heartfelt and genuine. I am excited for Sophia to be old enough to enjoy Anne as well. It will be fun to read the whole series. 5 stars for this one!
